Senator Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada urged his colleagues to let compassion prevail in considering the adoption of Resolution No. 144, expressing the sense of the Senate in requesting the International Criminal Court (ICC) to place former President Rodrigo Duterte under house arrest for humanitarian reasons.
In his manifestation of support for Senate Resolution No. 144, Estrada called on senators to uphold the principles of humanity, irrespective of political interests or other gains, in light of Duterte’s advanced age and deteriorating health condition.
Estrada further emphasized that his manifestation is not anchored on the merits or gravity of the alleged cases, but is tempered with respect for the dignity of a former leader, high regard for the elderly and weak, and recognition of Duterte’s years of service to the country.
“Hindi ito nangangahulugan ng paglimot o pag-abswelto sa mga kasong ipinupukol sa dating pangulo. Bagkus, ito ay pagbibigay ng pagkakataon na makapamuhay siya sa ilalim ng makatao at marangal na kalagayan habang dinidinig ang kanyang mga kaso,” Estrada said.
The senator underscored the Filipino value of showing respect and care for the elderly, noting that at 80 years old, Duterte is no longer the strong leader once seen at the helm of government, but an aging father, grandfather, and fellow Filipino facing the heavy toll of both illness and old age.
“Likas sa ating mga Filipino ang mataas na pagpapahalaga at paggalang sa mga nakatatanda. Sa oras na humaharap sila sa karamdaman at katandaan, tungkulin natin na ipakita ang malasakit at pag-unawa,” Estrada added.
He appealed to his colleagues in the Senate to unite in supporting the call, not only to demonstrate compassion for a former leader, but more importantly, to uphold the dignity and humanity of a fellow Filipino.
“Nawa’y manaig ang ating pagkakaisa, malasakit, at pagiging makatao—dahil higit sa lahat, siya ay isa ring kapwa Pilipino. Gaya nga na sinabi ng aking ama, ang dating Presidente Joseph Estrada, walang tutulong sa Filipino kung hindi ang kapwa Filipino,” Estrada said.